Dissent
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
For the G8 protest group, see Dissent! (network).
For a judicial opinion which is contrary to a majority decision, see Dissenting opinion.
Dissent is a sentiment or philosophy of non-agreement or opposition to an idea (eg. a government's policies) or an entity (eg. an individual or political party which supports such policies). Antonyms include agreement, consensus and consent.
Dissent may be expressed in many ways. In some political systems, dissent may be formally expressed by way of opposition politics, while politically repressive regimes may prohibit any form of dissent, leading to suppression of dissent and the encouragement of social or political activism. Individuals who do not conform or support the policies of certain states may be described as "dissidents" or in extreme cases, "enemies of the state".